Talking & Texting While Driving

Accidents happen every day because of distracted driving. Talking on a cell phone and texting while driving are among the most dangerous distractions to motorists.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates approximately 660,000 drivers are using cellphones while driving at any given moment during daytime hours. The NHTSA also reports drivers who are talking or texting while driving are three times more likely to be in an accident.*

Also, consider this example from the NHTSA of the dangers of texting: Five seconds is the average time a driver’s eyes are off the road while texting. It may not seem like a long time, but at 55 mph, it’s enough time to travel the length of a football field.*

Not only is talking or texting while driving dangerous; it may be against the law, as more state legislatures are banning these activities because of the safety threats they pose. By 2014, more than 40 states and territories have banned texting while driving, and more than a dozen have banned hand-held phones for all drivers.* So, know your state and local laws about talking and texting while driving.

Avoid Cell Phone Use

To be safe, you should avoid cell phone use while driving. Also:

If you have to make or answer a call, pull over and stop.

Avoid eating and drinking while driving.

Be aware of traffic and the road you're on. Instead of reading a map while you drive, use a GPS navigation system.